UPSC Notes

Judicial Review of Administrative Actions and Public Interest Litigation

PYQs

8

Articles

1

Momentum

21

Phase IFoundation

Background

Overview

This concept is central to understanding the checks and balances in India's democratic structure, the protection of fundamental rights, and the judiciary's role as a guardian of the Constitution and public interest. It demonstrates how citizens can seek redress against administrative failures.

Judicial review is a fundamental aspect of the Indian Constitution, allowing courts to examine the legality and constitutionality of executive and legislative actions. Public Interest Litigation (PIL) enables individuals or groups to approach the judiciary for the enforcement of public rights or duties, often acting as a crucial check on governmental power and ensuring accountability in governance.

Phase IIStatic core

Facts & tables

Key facts

Scope of Review

High Courts and the Supreme Court have the power to review government notifications and orders for legality and constitutionality.

Impact on Decisions

Judicial intervention can lead to the stay or cancellation of administrative decisions found to be arbitrary or illegal.

Role of Supreme Court

The Supreme Court can direct central investigative agencies like the CBI to probe matters of public importance, even if they fall under state jurisdiction, especially in cases of alleged widespread irregularities.

Public Interest

PILs often arise from issues affecting a large section of society, such as fairness and transparency in public recruitment processes.

Reference table

Static syllabus anchors

TypeReference
Conceptual areaConstitutional Law
Conceptual areaRule of Law
Conceptual areaChecks and Balances

Reference table

Institutions & roles

BodyRole
Jharkhand High CourtStayed government notification
Supreme Court of IndiaIssued notice for cbi probe
Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)Investigates cases of corruption/irregularities as directed by courts
Phase IIIExam lens

Prelims angle

Overview

Prelims angle: Statement-based questions

Prelims angle: Conceptual understanding

Quick revision

  • Judicial review checks executive actions for legality.
  • PIL allows public interest matters to be heard.
  • Courts can stay or cancel administrative orders.
  • SC can direct CBI probes in significant cases.
  • Ensures accountability and rule of law.

Elimination traps

Body vs treatyThe CBI is a premier investigative agency, a body, not an international treaty or agreement.

Treaty = agreement between states; body = institution.

High-confidence PYQs

Topic timeline

Constitutional LawRule of LawChecks and Balances

Taking reforms to the road: From Ranchi protest to a Statewide yatra

31 Aug 2026 · Explores how the judiciary, through powers like judicial review and mechanisms like PIL, intervenes in administrative matters (e.g., recruitment exam irregularities) to ensure legality, fairness, and accountability, often directing investigations or staying executive orders.

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Related topics

Practice writing on this topic

UPSC has asked 8 linked questions on Judicial Review of Administrative Actions and Public Interest Litigation in Mains. Write an answer to one — and get it evaluated.

UPSC Prelims PYQs on Judicial Review of Administrative Actions and Public Interest Litigation

Practice official previous year questions asked by UPSC related to this concept.

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